Sport and Performance Psychology

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

The field of sport and performance psychology is a fast-growing discipline that addresses mental health within performance-based arenas. The B.S. in Sport and Performance Psychology is a 49-unit degree designed to prepare individuals to address the current performance mental health challenges through a multidisciplinary focus on research and application centered around an empathetic approach — a skillset that is highly sought after by potential performance employers.

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning
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Why study sport and performance psychology at CBU?

Take relevant and interesting courses
Curriculum is focused on core disciplines, including social focus, cognitive practices, athletic application, theoretical knowledge, professionalism and ethics.

Get hands-on experience
This degree is perfect for any student who wishes to remain in athletics or the performance field and feels called to impact others in their cognitive development. A student earning this degree has the ability to work with performers in a gamut of different areas: athletics, military, performing arts and business.

Performance in the Social Environment

SPP 420

This course explores the establishment of relationships between psychology, social relationships and sport.

Ethics and Leadership in Performance Psychology

SPP 430

This course is centered around the leadership and ethics needed to build and develop professional relationships within a sport psychology setting.

Sport and Performance Psychology Capstone

SPP 499

This course provides students the opportunity to evaluate their own strengths/weaknesses and demonstrate an understanding of the integration of a Christian worldview and their major field of study.

Student Learning

Identify and describe core concepts related to the field of sport and performance psychology.
Identify and describe cognitive and behavioral theories/models related to sport and exercise psychology.
Differentiate how personal and professional practices impact diversity and cultural norms.
Explore the role of ethics pertaining to the field of sport and performance psychology.
Integrate faith, morals, and values in the practical application of sport and performance psychology.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Sport and Performance Cognitive Coach
Athletic Coach
Athletic Director
Psychologist

*Some career opportunities may require further education

49

Units

14%

Expected Rate of Job Growth

2020

Year the Program Began

Student Testimonials

"I am so grateful for my experience in this program, to the professors who offered mentorship and guidance, and to this field that serves to help athletes and performers become the best they can be. The excitement for where this field can go is evident in the tone and themes of this program, and I am proud to have been a part of it."
Lauren Ostrander, 2022

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Ed Garrett, PsyD

Professor, Program Coordinator

For the past 30 years, God has blessed me with some incredible experiences, which I use to help student-athletes sharpen their cognitive performance. I have worked for the Colorado Rockies, the USA Beach Volleyball program and as a school coach. For me, I teach to make an impact for Christ through the gift of sport.

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Kristin Mauldin, PhD

Associate Professor

While I was first drawn to psychology out of a desire to help others, I ended up loving conducting research in topics of cognitive neuroscience and sport and performance psychology. I like the freedom to ask questions that interest me, design a research study, and see it through to the conclusion. I enjoy teaching because it gives me a chance to connect with students.

See Profile >

Ed Garrett, PsyD

Professor, Program Coordinator

For the past 30 years, God has blessed me with some incredible experiences, which I use to help student-athletes sharpen their cognitive performance. I have worked for the Colorado Rockies, the USA Beach Volleyball program and as a school coach. For me, I teach to make an impact for Christ through the gift of sport.

See Profile >
Kristin Mauldin, PhD

Associate Professor

While I was first drawn to psychology out of a desire to help others, I ended up loving conducting research in topics of cognitive neuroscience and sport and performance psychology. I like the freedom to ask questions that interest me, design a research study, and see it through to the conclusion. I enjoy teaching because it gives me a chance to connect with students.

See Profile >